History Spotlight 10 - Youth Think Tank

In 2024, the Corporate History team launched “Our History, Our Legacy,” a three-year campaign to connect all employees globally to the Foundation’s history, milestones, and ways of working. One of the tactics within this promotional campaign included the release of "History Spotlights", which highlight the Foundation's past work, and emphasize its unique approach to philanthropy through trust-based partnerships, collaborative learning, and empowerment of youth in driving sustainable impact.

This tenth History Spotlight was posted to the Foundation's internal communication channels on October 8, 2024 and included the following contextual information:

Through the years, we've learned that the most successful initiatives are those driven by youth, informed by their needs and aspirations. That’s why more than a decade ago, we established our Youth Think Tank. Jahazi David, our Head, Innovation and Youth Partnerships for Special Programs, eloquently captures the power of our collaboration with youth: “Our young people are leaders, they are innovators, they are creative, they are disruptors, they are experienced. Sometimes they know things that we do not know, and they have something to offer on the table. Partnering with them...allows the community to appreciate the value of the youth force.” What started with just eight members has grown into a dynamic group of over 100 young people from across Africa. The Youth Think Tank members have led the research and publication of a series of learning reports, and influenced program design, impact strategy, and programming goals.